There will be champagne glasses chinking in Downing Street tonight as the news emerges that the Telegraph have sacked Simon Heffer. No friend of Dave, the conservative journalist is apparently off to “pursue a role in journalism and broadcasting that will allow him to complete a major literary project while developing his academic interests.” Will that be at the better-off-out Express or better-off-out UKIP, or both?

Telegraph sources say the “column had got into a rut.” Officially editor Tony Gallagher said “While I am sorry to see him depart, I fully understand his reasons and he leaves with everyone’s best wishes.” And a very large cheque Guido hears.